In Praise of ‘Difficult’ Kids
Feisty children can be exhausting. They also possess a moral fire that deserves cultivating.
Family
The Endless Goodbye
More than a decade before my dad died, I lost him to dementia.
Everyone Thinks They Need a NeeDoh
But no one can find one.
The Sneaky-Saver Generation
Gen Z may have a Peter Pan reputation—but it’s also saving a lot of money.
Why Don’t We Teach People How to Parent?
The ways that Americans used to learn child-rearing are falling apart. The new ones aren’t filling the gaps left behind.
Dear Therapist: My Daughter Tried to Confront My Ex-husband’s New Wife
Now he has cut her off and expects an apology.
Long Live the Chicago Rat Hole
Even something that starts as irony can give us a sense of community.
Americans Can’t Decide What It Means to Grow Up
Living alone tends to be idolized as a sign of maturity. But maybe that’s misguided.
Why Rich People Don’t Cover Their Windows
An unexpected status symbol has become a fixture of high-end homes.
The Vibes Are Off During the First Week of the Year
The transition to the new year brings a dreadful whiplash from rest to productivity.
Why Parents Struggle So Much in the World’s Richest Country
Raising kids shouldn’t be this hard.
My Father, the Giant
His life’s work was caring for the people he loved.
Maybe Don’t Send That Voice Note
The audio messages can encourage selfishness—unless you use them gracefully.
The Most Fun Way to Learn a Language
Pick up some slang.